It'* not that I don't really have much money but more the fact that I'm kind of cheap. What are some ways to sqeeze a few extra ponies out of 3.8 liter when on a budget. Particularly the non */C versions in the 87-91 model years.

A Cold air intake (even just a ebay special cone filter (like $10-20 including shipping) on the stock air hose, better plugs, 180* t-stat, high flow cat (Carsound 2.5" from e-bay $55.xx includes shipping), custom muffler (can be had for under $50 and install with clamps for a total under $80).

For mufflers here are some popular brands -just look for 2.5" inlet and either a single 2.5" outlet or two 2.25" outlets.


Magnaflow
Flowmaster
Dynomax
Raven
Borla (most expensive though).

Don't forget a tune-up. That is a necessity. Some Belden 8mm wires are the new thing. Lifetime warranty... and like $30.

The TPS mod and MAF Screen removal are also good. I did the TPS mod 20 miles before my car'* 'resting period'.. and there was a big increase in throttle response.. she used to take a second to go from idle to WOT, and the TPS mod fixed that.. I don't think I went faster.. but I would suggest doing it. Plus the MAF screen removal, I could feel the difference in power in that.. MAYBE 5hp... but mine was kinda bent.

A good cleaning of the TB and IAC, and IAC Passage would be good, too. A can of seafoam engine cleaner.. 50% in the tank, 50% in the PCV valve. Does wonders.. I currently have my top end off, and everything seems fairly clean [for it'* age], and I think some [if not most] of it has to do with me using some Seafoam.

If you do the CAI [Cold Air Intake].. alone, I would switch to one heatrange colder plug [I like NGK.. so the TR55'*].

And even little things, like keeping your tire pressure at specs, and cleaning out your trunk will help you go faster. It'* the little things that count .


-justin

tune-up doesnt give you more hp

just returns what you have lost during the years

you dont acheive more than your stock rated

I agree but a things get worn lets say plugs for example.... it causes you to loose hp that was there, a tune up regains the hp that you once had

im not gonna agrue theres a thread around here about that

Gameover, I think the point he'* trying to make is that you must do a complete tuneup before modding. Otherwise, it'* pointless.

yes i that is what i was trying to say